Suspension arrangement for a training device

ABSTRACT

A suspension arrangement for suspending at least one standing device on a frame device of a training device having at least one fixation device for fixation to the frame device, at least one connection device for connection with the standing device, and at least one resilient device for resiliently connecting the fixation device with the connection device. The resilient device extends inclined between the fixation device and the connection device so as to form at least one first inclination running along a first inclination direction and at least one second inclination running along a second inclination direction being different from the first inclination direction.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a suspension arrangement for suspendingat least one standing device on a frame device of a training deviceaccording to claim 1, a training device comprising such a suspensionarrangement according to claim 11, the use of such a suspensionarrangement for suspending at least one standing device on a framedevice of a training device according to claim 13, a method ofsuspending at least one standing device on a frame device of a trainingdevice according to claim 14, as well as to a method of producing such asuspension arrangement according to claim 15.

PRIOR ART

Various suspension arrangements for training devices such as rebound andbalance training devices or trampolines are known in the art. Forexample, US 2016/0096056 A1 discloses a trampoline including a frame, ajumping sheet and a plurality of suspension members. The suspensionmembers extend horizontally between the frame and the jumping sheet.U.S. Pat. No. 10,183,194 B1 discloses a rebound and balance trainingdevice that includes a frame, a footboard, a carrier for the footboardand a plurality of resilient spring elements extending essentiallyvertically between and being attached to the frame and the carrier tosupport the footboard.

Disadvantages associated with the suspension arrangements of the priorart are a heavy wear and correspondingly high maintenance work, forexample.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the present invention to overcome the drawbacks ofthe prior art. In particular, it is an object to provide a suspensionarrangement that has a low maintenance and which is cost-optimized.

This object is achieved with a suspension arrangement according to claim1. In particular, a suspension arrangement for suspending at least onestanding device on a frame device of a training device is provided,wherein the suspension arrangement comprises at least one fixationdevice for fixation to the frame device, at least one connection devicefor connection with the standing device, and at least one resilientdevice for resiliently connecting the fixation device with theconnection device. At least in an unused state of the suspensionarrangement, the resilient device extends inclined between the fixationdevice and the connection device so as to form at least one firstinclination running along a first inclination direction and at least onesecond inclination running along a second inclination direction. Thefirst inclination direction differs from the second inclinationdirection.

That is to say, the suspension arrangement comprises at least onefixation device that can be fixed to, i.e. that can be connected to orbrought into connection with a frame device of a training device. Thesuspension arrangement furthermore comprises at least one connectiondevice that can be connected to or brought into connection with astanding device. The connection device and the fixation device are inconnection with one another via at least one resilient device, wherebythe standing device can be resiliently suspended on the frame device ofthe training device. At least in the unused state of the suspensionarrangement, the resilient device is arranged between the connectiondevice and the fixation device with inclinations extending alongdifferent inclination directions. The unused state of the suspensionarrangement is understood as a state wherein no user uses the suspensionarrangement, i.e. a state where no external forces such as a weightforce or a pressure force exerted by a user act on the resilient device.Hence, at least in this unused state of the suspension arrangement theresilient device extends inclined. This inclined extension of theresilient device results in less wear of the components of thesuspension arrangement, which results in a suspension arrangement thathas a low maintenance. At the same time, the suspension arrangement isinexpensive to produce and operate, which leads to low manufacturing andmaintenance costs.

In the unused state of the suspension arrangement an angle ofinclination being formed between the first inclination and the secondinclination, in particular between a central axis running centrallythrough the resilient device forming the first inclination and a centralaxis running centrally through the resilient device forming the secondinclination, is preferably at least 1 degree or more, preferably atleast 5 degree or more, particularly preferably at least degree or more.Additionally or alternatively said angle of inclination, in the unusedstate of the suspension arrangement, preferably is in the range of about1 degree to 90 degree, preferably in the range of about 5 degree to 70degree, particularly preferably in the range of about 10 degree to 30degree. It is particularly preferred that the angle of inclination inthe unused state of the suspension arrangement is about 10 degree.

It is particularly preferred that the resilient device extends inclinedbetween the fixation device and the connection device so as to form atleast one first inclination and at least one second inclination also ina used state of the suspension arrangement, i.e. in a state wherein auser uses the suspension arrangement and wherein external forces such asa weight force or a pressure force exerted by a user act on theresilient device. In this used state, an angle of inclination betweenthe first inclination and the second inclination, in particular betweenthe central axis running centrally through the resilient device formingthe first inclination and the central axis running centrally through theresilient device forming the second inclination, is preferably at least1 degree or more, preferably at least 5 degree or more, particularlypreferably at least 10 degree or more. Additionally or alternativelysaid angle of inclination, in the used state of the suspensionarrangement, preferably is in the range of about 1 degree to 90 degree,preferably in the range of about 5 degree to 70 degree, particularlypreferably in the range of about 10 degree to 30 degree.

Furthermore, the angle of inclination being formed between the firstinclination and the second inclination in the used state of thesuspension arrangement preferably essentially equals the angle ofinclination being formed between the first inclination and the secondinclination in the unused state of the suspension arrangement. Forexample, it is conceivable that the suspension arrangement is configuredsuch, that the angle of inclination in the used state of the suspensionarrangement and the angle of inclination in the unused state of thesuspension arrangement are about 10 degree. However, it is likewiseconceivable that the angle of inclination in the used state of thesuspension arrangement differs from the angle of inclination in theunused state of the suspension arrangement. Such a deviation in theangle of inclination can be at least 1 degree or more, such as at least3 degree or more, or such as at least 9 degree or more. For example, ifthe angle of inclination in the unused state of the training device is10 degree, it is preferred that the angle of inclination in the usedstate of the training device is 9 degree or less, such as 7 degree orless, or such as 1 degree or less. However, other deviations in theangle of inclination are likewise conceivable. For example, a deviationin the angle of inclination could be at least 30 degree or more, such asat least 65 degree or more, or at least 75 degree or more. For example,if the angle of inclination in the unused state of the suspensionarrangement is 90 degree, the angle of inclination in the used state ofthe suspension arrangement is preferably 60 degree or less, such as 25degree or less, or such as 15 degree or less.

Again in other words, it is conceivable that the angle of inclination inthe used state of the suspension arrangement is at least 10% or more ofthe angle of inclination in the unused state of the training device,such as at least 15% or more or 30% or more or 50% or more or 70% ormore or even 90% or more.

If the angles of inclination in the unused state and the used statediffer from one another it is preferred that the angle of inclinationwhen the suspension arrangement is in the unused state is larger thanthe angle of inclination when the suspension arrangement is in its usedstate.

Moreover, it should be noted that the suspension arrangement can adapttwo or more used states as a result of different external forces beingexerted by the user on the resilient device. Consequently, it isconceivable that two or more angles of inclination are formed when thesuspension arrangement is in its used state, wherein said two or moreangles of inclination differ from one another.

At least in the unused state of the suspension arrangement the firstinclination preferably runs upward between the connection device and thefixation device with respect to a horizontal plane of the suspensionarrangement. That is, the first inclination can be seen as an upwardinclination running along an upward direction. Hereinafter the firstinclination is therefore referred to as upward inclination, irrespectiveof the state of the suspension arrangement, i.e. whether the suspensionarrangement is in its used state or unused state. Additionally oralternatively, at least in the unused state of the suspensionarrangement, the second inclination preferably runs downward between theconnection device and the fixation device with respect to saidhorizontal plane of the suspension arrangement. Consequently, the secondinclination can be seen as a downward inclination running along adownward direction, which is why said second inclination is hereinafterreferred to as downward inclination irrespective of the state of thesuspension arrangement, i.e. whether the suspension arrangement is inits used state or unused state.

Said horizontal plane of the suspension arrangement is a plane beingspanned by two horizontal direction of the suspension arrangement thatrun perpendicular to one another as well as perpendicular with respectto a vertical direction of the suspension arrangement. The verticaldirection is understood as a direction that extends from a ground thetraining device is arranged on vertically upwardly.

The suspension arrangement preferably comprises two or more, inparticular a plurality of upward inclinations and downward inclinations.It is furthermore preferred that the upward inclinations and downwardinclinations are provided in an alternating manner, i.e. it is preferredthat one or more upward inclinations are followed by one or moredownward inclinations. Moreover, and as will be explained in greaterdetail below, one particular upward inclination or downward inclinationcan be provided by means of one particular resilient device. In otherwords it is preferred that the suspension arrangement comprises at leastone resilient device that runs upward between the connection device andthe fixation device and at least one further resilient device that runsdownward between the connection device and the fixation device. That isto say, the suspension arrangement can comprise two or more resilientdevices. However, it is likewise conceivable that one resilient deviceis arranged such, that it runs upward as well as downward.

The resilient device preferably has a tensile force of at least 100 N ata strain of 100%, more preferably of at least 140 N at a strain of 100%,and particularly preferably of at least 160 N at a strain of 100%.Additionally or alternatively a maximal strain of the resilient deviceis preferably at least 100% or more, more preferably at least 130% ormore, and particularly preferably 170% or more.

The resilient device and/or the further resilient device preferably arean elastic rope. A particularly preferred elastic rope has a tensileforce of 160 N at a strain of 100% and a maximal strain of about 170%.Further preferred properties of the elastic rope are a diameter of about10 mm to 15 mm, preferably 14 mm and/or a braiding of PES 1100x1.Furthermore, it is preferred that the elastic rope is provided by rubberthreads, particularly preferably by so-called High Performance rubber(synthetic). An advantage of resilient devices in the form of elasticropes are an improved vibration behaviour as compared to springs, forexample. The elastic ropes therefore enable a user a joint-friendlytraining.

However, other resilient devices such as springs, in particular steelsprings, are likewise conceivable and are well-known to the skilledperson.

The fixation device preferably comprises at least one first fixationelement and at least one second fixation element, wherein the fixationdevice and the connection device are in connection with one another viathe first and second fixation elements of the fixation device. The firstfixation element and the second fixation element can be arrangedstaggered from one another with respect to a vertical direction of thefixation device.

That is to say, the inclined arrangement of the resilient device can beachieved by the provision of a fixation device comprising fixationelements that are arranged staggered with respect to one another andwhich respect to a vertical direction of the fixation device. Thevertical direction of the fixation device runs vertically with respectto a ground the training device stands on. In other words, the verticaldirection of the fixation device runs parallel to the vertical directionof the suspension arrangement.

Hence, the object of providing a suspension arrangement that has a lowmaintenance and which is cost-optimized could likewise be achieved bythe provision of a suspension arrangement comprising at least onefixation device for fixation to the frame device, at least oneconnection device for connection with the standing device, and at leastone resilient device for resiliently connecting the fixation device withthe connection device, wherein the fixation device comprises at leastone first fixation element and at least one second fixation element,wherein the fixation device and the connection device are in connectionwith one another via the first and second fixation elements of thefixation device, and wherein the first fixation element and the secondfixation element are arranged staggered from one another with respect toa vertical direction of the fixation device.

Alternatively, it is however likewise conceivable that the firstfixation element and the second fixation element are arranged in anon-staggered manner from one another with respect to the verticaldirection of the fixation device.

The first fixation element and the second fixation element arepreferably arranged staggered from one another with respect to ahorizontal direction of the fixation device running perpendicularly tothe vertical direction of the fixation device.

At least in the unused state of the suspension arrangement, thehorizontal direction of the fixation device runs parallel to ahorizontal direction of the suspension arrangement.

A vertical distance between the first fixation element and the secondfixation element when seen along the vertical direction of the fixationdevice preferably is in the range of about 1 cm to 10 cm, morepreferably in the range of about 2 cm to 6 cm, and particularlypreferably about 3.5 cm.

A horizontal distance between the first fixation element and the secondfixation element when seen along the horizontal direction of thefixation device preferably is in the range of about 1 cm to 10 cm, morepreferably in the range of about 2 cm to 6 cm, and particularlypreferably about 4 cm.

The fixation device preferably comprises at least one further firstfixation element. The first fixation element and the further firstfixation element are preferably arranged staggered from one another withrespect to the horizontal direction of the fixation device. Additionallyor alternatively the first fixation element and the further firstfixation element are preferably arranged in a non-staggered manner fromone another with respect to the vertical direction of the fixationdevice.

A vertical distance between the first fixation element and the furtherfirst fixation element when seen along the horizontal direction of thefixation device preferably is in the range of about 1 cm to 10 cm, morepreferably in the range of about 2 cm to 6 cm, and particularlypreferably about 3 cm.

The first fixation element and the further first fixation element arepreferably arranged in pairs, wherein hereinafter said pairs are calledfirst pairs. The suspension arrangement preferably comprises a pluralityof such first pairs. Said plurality of first pairs are preferablyarranged staggered from one another with respect to the horizontaldirection of the fixation device. A horizontal distance betweensuccessive first pairs when seen along the horizontal direction of thefixation device preferably is about 1 cm or more, more preferably about2 cm or more. Said plurality of first pairs are preferably arranged in anon-staggered manner from one another with respect to the verticaldirection of the fixation device, i.e. said plurality of first pairs arepreferably arranged on a same vertical height.

The fixation device preferably comprises at least one further secondfixation element. The second fixation element and the further secondfixation element are preferably arranged staggered from one another withrespect to the horizontal direction of the fixation device. Additionallyor alternatively the second fixation element and the further secondfixation element are preferably arranged in a non-staggered manner fromone another with respect to the vertical direction of the fixationdevice.

A horizontal distance between the second fixation element and thefurther second fixation element when seen along the horizontal directionof the fixation preferably is in the range of about 1 cm to 10 cm, morepreferably in the range of about 2 cm to 6 cm, and particularlypreferably about 3 cm.

The second fixation element and the further second fixation element arepreferably arranged in pairs, wherein hereinafter said pairs are calledsecond pairs. The suspension arrangement preferably comprises aplurality of such second pairs. Said plurality of second pairs arepreferably arranged staggered from one another with respect to thehorizontal direction of the fixation device. Said plurality of secondpairs are preferably arranged in a non-staggered manner from one anotherwith respect to the vertical direction of the fixation device, i.e. saidplurality of second pairs are preferably arranged on a same verticalheight. A vertical distance between the plurality of first pairs and theplurality of second pairs is preferably the same. The vertical distancebetween a first pair and a second pair with respect to the verticaldirection of the fixation device preferably is 2 cm or more, morepreferably 4 cm or more.

The connection device preferably comprises at least one first connectionelement and at least one second connection element. The fixation deviceand the connection device are preferably in connection with one anothervia the first and second connection elements of the connection device.The first connection element and the second connection element arepreferably arranged in a staggered manner from one another with respectto a horizontal direction of the connection device. Additionally oralternatively the first connection element and the second connectionelement can be arranged in a staggered manner from one another withrespect to a vertical direction of the connection device runningperpendicularly to the horizontal direction of the connection device.

That is to say, the inclined arrangement of the resilient device canalso be achieved by the provision of a connection device comprisingconnection elements that are arranged staggered with respect to oneanother and which respect to a vertical direction of the connectiondevice.

Hence, the object of providing a suspension arrangement that has a lowmaintenance and which is cost-optimized could likewise be achieved bythe provision of a suspension arrangement comprising at least onefixation device for fixation to the frame device, at least oneconnection device for connection with the standing device, and at leastone resilient device for resiliently connecting the fixation device withthe connection device, wherein the connection device comprises at leastone first connection element and at least one second connection element,wherein the fixation device and the connection device are in connectionwith one another via the first and second connection elements of theconnection device, and wherein the first connection element and thesecond connection element are arranged staggered from one another withrespect to a vertical direction of the connection device.

However, it is of course likewise conceivable that the first connectionelement and the second connection element are arranged in non-staggeredmanner from one another with respect to the vertical direction of theconnection device.

The vertical direction of the connection device runs vertically withrespect to a ground the training device stands on. In other words, thevertical direction of the connection device runs parallel to thevertical direction of the fixation device and/or to the verticaldirection of the suspension arrangement. At least in the unused state ofthe suspension arrangement, the horizontal direction of the connectiondevice runs parallel to the horizontal direction of the fixation deviceand/or to a horizontal direction of the suspension arrangement.

A horizontal distance between the first connection element and thesecond connection element when seen along the horizontal direction ofthe connection device preferably is about 0.1 cm or more, preferablyabout 1 cm or more. Additionally or alternatively conceivable horizontaldistance between the first connection element and the second connectionelement when seen along the horizontal direction of the connectiondevice is preferably in the range of about 1 cm to 25 cm, morepreferably in the range of about 2 cm to 15 cm. Additionally oralternatively a preferred horizontal distance is about 1 cm, morepreferably about 4 cm or more.

If applicable, a vertical distance between the first connection elementand the second connection element when seen along the vertical directionof the connection device preferably is in the range of about 1 cm to 10cm, more preferably in the range of about 2 cm to 6 cm, and particularlypreferably about 3.5 cm.

The suspension arrangement preferably comprises a plurality ofconnection elements, wherein said plurality of connection elements areparticularly preferably arranged at a uniform distance from one anotherwith respect to the horizontal distance of the connection device.

A number of connection elements preferably equals to or is smaller thanor larger than a number of fixation elements. It is particularlypreferred that a number of connection elements is smaller than, inparticular half the number of fixation elements. In other words, it ispreferred that one connection element is in each case provided for twofixation elements. Said two fixation elements particularly preferablycorrespond to fixation elements constituting a first pair or a secondpair, see above.

It should furthermore be noted that connection elements being arrangedstaggered from one another with respect to the vertical direction of theconnection device can likewise be provided in the form of first pairsand second pairs as described above in the context of the staggeredfixation elements. Hence, explanations provided in this regard likewiseapply to vertically staggered connection elements.

The resilient device preferably is in connection with the first fixationelement and/or with the further first fixation element. Additionally,said resilient device could also be in connection with the firstconnection element.

As mentioned initially, the suspension arrangement preferably comprisesat least one further resilient device. Said at least one furtherresilient device preferably is in connection with the second fixationelement and/or with the further second fixation element. Additionally,said further resilient device could also be in connection with thesecond connection element.

One resilient device preferably connects one pair of fixation elementswith one connection element. That is, in the event of one first pair andone second pair a first resilient device could connect the firstconnection element with the first pair and a second resilient devicecould connect the second connection element with the second pair. In theevent of a plurality of first pairs and second pairs, a first resilientdevice could connect the first connection element with the first pair, asecond resilient device could connect the second connection element withthe second pair, a third resilient device could connect a thirdconnection element with a further first pair, a fourth resilient devicecould connect a fourth connection element with a further second pair,etc. However, it is likewise preferred that one individual fixationelement is connected with one individual resilient device. In this case,the fixation elements constituting a pair are individually connectedwith a common connection element via a corresponding resilient device.For example, a first connection element could be connected with a firstfixation element via a first resilient device, and said same firstconnection element could be connected with a further first fixationelement via a second resilient device. Furthermore, it is conceivablethat in each case one connection element is connected with one fixationelement via one resilient device.

Other connections of the connection elements and the fixation elementsvia one or more resilient devices are however likewise conceivable.

The first fixation element and/or the further first fixation elementand/or the second fixation element and/or the further second fixationelement preferably has the shape of a hook. In this case, the resilientdevice and/or the further resilient device is preferably hooked in oneor more of the hooks.

The first connection element and/or the second connection elementpreferably has the shape of a bar. In this case, the resilient deviceand/or the further resilient device is preferably looped around one ormore of the bars.

The resilient device preferably is provided in the form of a loop,particularly preferably in the form of a closed loop. For example, ifthe resilient device corresponds to an elastic rope, it is preferredthat said rope is arranged as a loop, for example by connecting the freeends of the elastic rope to one another.

It is particularly preferred that a resilient device is looped around aconnection element in the form of a bar as well as hooked in a firstfixation element and/or further first fixation element and/or secondfixation element and/or further second fixation element in the form of ahook. Thus, it is preferred that a number of connection elements equalsa number of resilient devices which in turn equals a number of totalfixation elements, i.e. the total number of first and further firstfixation elements as well as second and further second fixationelements. It is likewise preferred that a resilient device is loopedaround a connection element in the form of a bar and hooked in twofixation elements. In this case it is thus likewise conceivable thatthere are as many resilient devices as connection elements as fixationelements, wherein however one or more resilient devices are not inconnection with one or more connection elements or one or more fixationelements. Alternatively, it is conceivable that less resilient devicesare provided than connection elements and/or than fixation elements, andwherein one or more resilient devices are in each case in connectionwith two or more fixation elements and/or two or more connectionelements. If one resilient device is in connection with two fixationelements, said two fixation elements particularly preferably constitutea first pair or a second pair as described above. It is furthermorepreferred that the hooks constituting a first pair or a second pair areoriented differently from one another. In particular, it is preferredthat the hook constituting the first fixation element (second fixationelement) and the hook constituting the further first fixation element(further second fixation element) extend in opposite directions and/orare arranged in a mirror-inverted manner with respect to one another andwith respect to a plane extending along the vertical direction of thefixation device and between the first fixation element (second fixationelement) and the further first fixation element (further second fixationelement). In this way the resilient device can be laterally hooked inthe fixation elements.

The fixation device furthermore preferably comprises an elongate elementsuch as a plate or the like, and wherein the fixation elements arearranged on said plate, particularly preferably on a surface of saidplate. The plate and/or the fixation elements can be made of the same ordifferent materials. To this end it is preferred that the plate and thefixation elements are made of metal. The plate and the fixation elementscan constitute a single-piece element or a multi-piece element. In thelater case it is conceivable that the plate is provided with bores orthe like, and wherein the fixation elements are screwed into said bores.Other fastenings such as an adhesive fastening or a welded connectionare of course likewise conceivable.

The connection elements in the form of the bar can be provided by meansof a single bar. In other words, the connection elements can be providedin the form of a single-piece element. Alternatively, it is likewiseconceivable that the connection elements are configured separately fromone another such as several individual bars. The connection devicefurthermore preferably comprises an elongate element that can beconnected to the bar. For example, it is conceivable that said elongatemember comprises two or more through holes, through which the bar can beslid and thereby fastened to the elongate member. A further connectionof the elongate member and the bar is preferably achieved by mechanicaland/or chemical fastening means, for example by means of a screw, inparticular a hub screw, or an adhesive. These and any furtherconceivable fastening means are well-known to the skilled person. Tothis end it is particularly preferred that the elongate member comprisesan elongate base body with two or more protrusions, and wherein thethrough holes are provided in said protrusions. In other words, it ispreferred that the connection device has the shape of a rake. Theprotrusions preferably protrude laterally from the base body and arefacing towards the fixation device. The base body is preferably facingaway from the fixation device and facing towards the standing deviceinstead.

The resilient device and/or the at least one further resilient deviceare preferably releasably fastenable to the first fixation elementand/or the further first fixation element and/or the second fixationelement and/or the further second fixation element and/or to the firstconnection element and/or the second connection element. That is, it ispreferred that the one or more resilient devices can be looped aroundone or more bars and/or hooked in one or more hooks in a non-permanentmanner. Such a design allows a user of the training device to adjust thesuspension of the standing device(s) and to consequently adjust atraining mode of the training device. In fact, the more resilient deviseare used for suspending the suspension arrangement the more force isneeded from a user to overcome the resilient force exerted by theresilient devices.

In another aspect a training device comprising at least one standingdevice, a frame device and at least one suspension arrangement asdescribed above is provided. Any of the above and below explanationsregarding the suspension arrangement therefore likewise apply to thetraining device comprising such a suspension arrangement and vice versa.

At least in an unused state of the training device, the standing deviceand the suspension arrangement are preferably arranged in a commonplane. The unused state of the training device is understood as a statewherein no user uses the training device, i.e. a state where no externalforces such as a weight force or a pressure force exerted by a user acton the training device. Thus, when the training device is in its unusedstate the suspension arrangement is in its unused state as well.Consequently, a used state of the training device is understood as astate wherein a user of the training device uses the training device andwherein external forces act on the training device. When the trainingdevice is in its used state the suspension arrangement is in its usedstate as well.

Thus, at least in the unused state of the training device, the resilientdevice preferably extends inclined between the connection device and thefixation device so as to form at least one first inclination and atleast one second inclination. The first inclination preferably runsupward between the connection device and the fixation device withrespect to a horizontal plane of the training device, and/or wherein thesecond inclination preferably runs downward between the connectiondevice and the fixation device with respect to the horizontal plane ofthe training device. Said horizontal plane of the training devicepreferably corresponds to the common plane the standing device and thesuspension arrangement are arranged in.

At least in the unused state of the training device, the horizontalplane of the training device preferably runs parallel to the horizontalplane of the suspension arrangement.

The suspension arrangement is preferably arranged within a base elementof the frame element that extends along the horizontal plane of thetraining device.

The horizontal plane of the training device is spanned by a firsthorizontal direction of the training device and a second horizontaldirection of the training device running perpendicularly to the firsthorizontal direction of the training device. Said first and secondhorizontal directions of the training device running perpendicularly toa vertical direction of the training device. The vertical direction ofthe training device extends vertically upwardly from a ground thetraining device is arranged on. The vertical direction of the trainingdevice runs parallel to the vertical direction of the fixation deviceand the vertical direction of the connection device. At least in theunused state of the training device the first horizontal direction ofthe training device runs parallel to the horizontal direction of theconnection device and the horizontal direction of the fixation device.Said first horizontal direction of the training device preferablyextends along a transverse direction of the training device. Thetransverse direction of the training device in turn runs preferably runsperpendicular to a longitudinal direction of the training device. Saidlongitudinal direction of the training device preferably runs parallelto the second horizontal direction of the training device.

At least in the unused state of the training device, the connectiondevice, in particular its one or more connection elements, are arrangedon a vertical height that lies between a vertical height of the firstfixation element and a vertical height of the second fixation elementwith respect to the vertical direction of the training device. Thisarrangement is preferred in the event of vertically staggered fixationelements and non-staggered connection elements.

However, it is likewise conceivable that, at least in the unused stateof the training device, the fixation device, in particular the firstfixation element and/or the second fixation element, is arranged on avertical height that lies between a vertical height of the firstconnection element and a vertical height of the second connectionelement. This arrangement is preferred in the event of verticallystaggered connection elements and non-staggered fixation elements.

The standing device is preferably configured inelastic and/or bendableand/or not stretchable and/or load-bearing and/or torsion-proof and/orhaving a medium strength, i.e. being stable but not hard. The standingdevice is furthermore preferably configured such that a user can standon it. That is, it preferably corresponds to an elongated elementcomprising a surface the user can stand on.

The standing device can be directly connected to the connection device.It is however likewise conceivable that the standing device and theconnection device are indirectly connected with one another, for examplevia one or more ribbons or the like. To this end it is preferred thatthe connection device on the side facing the standing device comprisesconnection elements, and wherein a connection between the connectiondevice and the standing device takes place via said connection elements.Likewise, the fixation device can be connected directly or indirectly tothe frame device. The fixation device is particularly preferably weldedor screwed to the frame device.

It is particularly preferred that the training device comprises twosuspension arrangements per standing device. The standing devicepreferably is of an elongate shape that extends, in the unused state ofthe training device, along the second horizontal direction of thetraining device. The standing device furthermore preferably comprisestwo opposed ends, wherein a first end of the standing device isconnected to or in connection with a first suspension arrangement and asecond end of the standing device is connected to or in connection witha second suspension arrangement. It is particularly preferred that thetraining device comprises two standing devices and consequently foursuspension arrangements. To this end it is conceivable that one or morecomponents of two suspension arrangements that are arranged on a sameside of the training device are configured separately from one anotheror can be joined together so as a single-piece element. For example, itis conceivable that the two fixation devices of the two suspensionarrangements in the shape of elongated plates are provided as twoseparate plates or in the form of a common plate. The same applies tothe connection devices.

The training device is preferably configured such that it can adopt oneor more used states. As mentioned earlier, the used state is understoodas a state wherein a user of the training device stands on the one ormore standing devices and presses or pushes the standing devices againstthe resilient force of the resilient device. As a consequence, duringthe action of a pressing force or pushing force the standing devices aremoved with respect to the frame device along the vertical direction ofthe training device towards a ground. In other words, the standingdevices are lowered. Said position of the standing devices can bereferred to as use position. In the absence of such a pressing orpushing force, the resilient force of the resilient device returns thestanding devices into an initial position. A user can be said to performa training if he or she transfers the standing device(s) into their usedposition and initial position several times. However, it is likewiseconceivable that the training device is used for balance exercises,wherein the user merely stands on the one or more standing devices. Thebalance exercise is enabled by the resilient suspension of the standingdevice(s) by the suspension arrangement.

In another aspect at least one suspension arrangement as described aboveis used for suspending at least one standing device on a frame device ofa training device.

In another aspect a method of suspending at least one standing device ona frame device of a training device is provided, wherein the methodcomprises the steps of: i) providing at least one suspension arrangementas described above, ii) fixing the at least one fixation device to theframe device, iii) connecting the at least one connection device withthe at least one standing device, and iv) connecting the at least onefixation device and the at least one connection device via the at leastone resilient device. It should be noted that the steps ii) to iv) canbe carried out in any order.

In another aspect a method of producing a suspension arrangement forsuspending at least one standing device on a frame device of a trainingdevice is provided, wherein the method comprises the steps of: i)providing at least one fixation device for fixation to the frame device,ii) providing at least one connection device for connection with thestanding device, and iii) providing at least one resilient device forresiliently connecting the fixation device with the connection device.The resilient device extends inclined between the fixation device andthe connection device so as to format least one first inclinationrunning along a first inclination direction and at least one secondinclination running along a second inclination direction being differentfrom the first inclination direction. The first inclination preferablyruns upward between the connection device and the fixation device withrespect to a horizontal plane of the suspension arrangement, and/orwherein the second inclination direction preferably runs downwardbetween the connection device and the fixation device with respect tothe horizontal plane of the suspension arrangement. Here again it shouldbe noted that the steps i) to iii) can be carried out in any order.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Preferred embodiments of the invention are described in the followingwith reference to the drawings, which are for the purpose ofillustrating the present preferred embodiments of the invention and notfor the purpose of limiting the same. In the drawings,

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a training device with two standingdevices that are suspended on a frame device with suspensionarrangements according to the invention;

FIG. 2 shows another perspective view of the training device accordingto FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 3 shows a bottom view of the training device according to FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of the standing devices and thesuspension arrangements according to FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 5 shows an enlarged perspective view of region A indicated in FIG.4 ;

FIG. 6 shows an enlarged top view of region A indicated in FIG. 4 ;

FIG. 7 shows an enlarged side view of region A indicated in FIG. 4 ;

FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of a fixation device of the suspensionarrangement according to FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 9 shows a bottom view of the fixation device of the suspensionarrangement according to FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 10 shows a front view of the fixation device of the suspensionarrangement according to FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of a fixation element of the fixationdevice of the suspension arrangement according to FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of a fixation device according toanother embodiment of a suspension arrangement according to theinvention;

FIG. 13 shows a sectional view along the sectional line B-B according toFIG. 12 ;

FIG. 14 shows a perspective view of a connection device of thesuspension arrangement according to FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 15 shows a top view of the connection device of the suspensionarrangement according to FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 16 shows a perspective view of a connection device according toanother embodiment of a suspension arrangement according to theinvention;

FIG. 17 shows a top view of the connection device according to FIG. 16 ;

FIG. 18 shows a diagram depicting a force as a function strain of aresilient device of the suspension arrangement according to FIG. 1 .

DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Different aspects of a suspension arrangement 1 for suspending one ormore standing devices 8 on a frame device 9 of a training device 10 aswell as of a training device 10 comprising such a suspension arrangement1 and standing device(s) 8 are discussed with reference to the figures.

As best seen in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the training device 10 comprises a framedevice 9 comprising a base element 11 in the form of a rectangular platethat extends within a horizontal plane PHt of the training device 10.The horizontal plane PHt is spanned by a first horizontal direction Ht1of the training device 10 and a second horizontal direction Ht2 of thetraining device 10 running perpendicularly to the first horizontaldirection Ht1 of the training device 10. The frame device 9 furthermorecomprises two rail elements 12 that have the shape of a reverse “V”.Said rail elements 12 extend through the base element 11 of the framedevice 9 and fix the base element 11 at a distance from a ground thetraining device 10 is arranged on. In other words, the base element 11is arranged vertically spaced apart from the ground and with respect toa vertical direction Vt of the training device 10 runningperpendicularly to the horizontal directions Ht1, Ht2 of the trainingdevice 10. The base element 11 comprises a rectangular recess 13 thatextends completely through the base element 11 with respect to thevertical direction Vt of the training device 10. Said recess 13 can besaid to form a through-opening. The suspension arrangement 1 is arrangedwithin the recess 13 of the base element 11.

As will be explained in greater detail below, the suspension arrangement1 according to the invention comprises one or more fixation devices 2,one or more connection devices 3, and one or more resilient devices 4, 4a that are configured for resiliently connecting the fixation device 2with the connection device 3. In other words, the suspension arrangement1 serves the purpose of resiliently suspending one or more standingdevices 8 on the frame device 9 of the training device 10.

In the present case, four suspension arrangements 1 are arranged withinthe recess 13 of the base element 11 of the frame device 9, and whereintwo suspension arrangements 1 are used for suspending one standingdevice 8, 8′. Thus, the training device 10 depicted in the figurescomprises two standing devices 8, 8′ that are arranged next to oneanother. Here, said standing devices 8, 8′ have in each case the shapeof a rectangular element that extends within the recess 13 of the baseelement 11 and, at least in an unused state of the training device 10,along the horizontal directions Ht1, Ht2 of the training device 10. Thestanding devices 8, 8′ are thus vertically spaced apart from the groundas well. In order to facilitate access of the standing devices 8, 8′ toa user the frame device 9 comprises here a step element 14 the user canstep on when he or she wants to use the training device 10. Said stepelement 14 can of course also serve the purpose of assisting thedescending from the training device 10. Furthermore, more than one stepelement 14 is conceivable.

The standing devices 8, 8′ are made of an inelastic and bendable,however not stretchable material. The standing devices 8, 8′ arefurthermore arranged and configured such that a user of the trainingdevice 10 can stand on a surface 15 of the standing devices 8, 8′. Thetraining device 10 is configured such that it can adopt one or more usedstates. A used state is understood as a state wherein a user of thetraining device 10 stands on the one or more standing devices 8, 8′, inparticular on their surfaces 15, 15′, and presses or pushes the standingdevices 8, 8′ against a resilient force of the suspension arrangement 1,in particular of its resilient devices 4, 4 a. As a consequence, duringthe action of a pressing force or pushing force the standing devices 8,8′ are moved with respect to the base element 11 of the frame device 9along the vertical direction Vt of the training device 10 towards theground. In other words, the standing devices 8, 8′ are lowered. Saidposition of the standing devices 8, 8′ can be referred to as useposition. In the absence of such a pressing or pushing force, theresilient force of the suspension arrangement 1, in particular of theresilient devices 4, 4 a, returns the standing devices 8, 8′ into theirinitial position, wherein the standing devices 8, 8′ essentially extendalong the horizontal plane PHt of the training device 10. A user can besaid to perform a training if he or she transfers the standing device(s)8, 8′ into their used position and initial position several times.However, the training device 10 can also be used for other exercisessuch as balance exercises, wherein the user stands and balances with oneof his legs on one or more of the standing devices 8, 8′. This balanceexercise is likewise enabled by the resilient suspension of the standingdevice(s) 8, 8′ by the suspension arrangement 1.

Each standing device 8, 8′ comprises two opposed ends 16, 16′; 17, 17′,wherein a first end of a first standing device 8 is connected to a firstsuspension arrangement 1, a second end 17 of the first standing device 8is connected to a second suspension arrangement 1′, a first end 16′ of asecond standing device 8′ is connected to a third suspension arrangement1″, and a second end 17′ of the second standing device 8′ is connectedto a fourth suspension arrangement 1′″, respectively.

As best seen in FIGS. 1 to 4 , each suspension arrangement 1, 1′, 1″,1′″ comprises here one fixation device 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″ and one connectiondevice 3, 3′, 3″, 3′″. Whereas all connection devices 3, 3′, 3″, 3′″ areconfigured separately from one another, two fixation devices 2, 2″ and2′, 2′″ being arranged on a same side of the training device 10 areprovided as a single-piece element. It is of course likewise conceivablethat the fixation devices 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″ are in each case provided asindividual devices as well. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the twoconnection devices 3, 3″ and 3′, 3″ being arranged on the same side ofthe training device 10 are provided as a single-piece element. Thefixation devices 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″ are connected to the frame device 9, inparticular to a side wall 18 of the base element 11 of the frame device9 that delimits the recess 13 of the base element 11. The connectiondevices 3, 3′, 3″, 3′″ are in connection with the standing devices 8, 8′via straps 19, 19 a, . . . . In other words, the fixation devices 2, 2′,2″, 2′″ are directly connected to the frame device 9 whereas theconnection devices 3, 3′, 3″, 3′″ are indirectly connected to thestanding devices 8, 8′.

Each fixation device 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″ comprises an elongate element 20such as a plate or the like that defines a front surface 21 and anopposing back surface 22. The back surface 22 is connected to the framedevice 9, in particular screwed to the side wall 18 of the base element11. The front surface 21 comprises a plurality of fixation elements 5, 5a, 6, 6 a that are used for the resilient connection of the fixationdevice 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″ with the connection device 3, 3′, 3″, 3′″, seealso explanations provided further below with reference to FIGS. 8 to 13.

Each connection device 3, 3′, 3″, 3′″ defines a front region 23 and anopposing back region 24. The back region 24 is in connection with thestanding device 8, 8′ and the front region 23 comprises a plurality ofconnection elements 7, 7 a, that are used for the resilient connectionof the connection device 3, 3′, 3″, 3′″ with the fixation device 2, 2′,2″, 2′″, see also explanations provided further below with reference toFIGS. 14 to 17 .

As follows from FIG. 4 , a vertical direction Vf of the fixation device2, 2′, 2″, 2′″ and a horizontal direction Hf of the fixation device 2,2′, 2″, 2′″ running perpendicularly to said vertical direction Vf can beassigned to the fixation device 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″. Likewise, a verticaldirection Vc of the connection device 3, 3′, 3″, 3′″ and a horizontaldirection Hc of the connection device 3, 3′, 3″, 3′″ runningperpendicularly to said vertical direction Vc can be assigned to theconnection device 3, 3′, 3″, 3′″. In an installed position of thesuspension arrangement 1, 1′, 1″, 1′″, i.e. when the fixation devices 2,2′, 2″, 2′″ are fixed or connected to the frame device 9 and theconnection device 3, 3′, 3″, 3′″ is in connection with or connected tothe standing device 8, 8′, and in the unused state of the trainingdevice 10, the vertical direction Vf of the fixation device 2, 2′, 2″,2′″ runs parallel to the vertical direction Vc of the connection device3, 3′, 3″, 3′″. In these positions, both, said vertical direction Vf ofthe fixation device 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″ and said vertical direction Vc of theconnection device 3, 3′, 3″, 3′″ run parallel to a vertical direction Vsof the suspension arrangement 1, 1′, 1″, 1′″, which in turn runsparallel to the vertical direction Vt of the training device, see FIG. 1. Likewise, in this installed position of the suspension arrangement 1,1′, 1″, 1′″ and when the training device 10 is in its unused state, thehorizontal direction Hf of the fixation device 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″ runsparallel to the horizontal direction Hc of the connection device 3, 3′,3″, 3′″. In these positions, both said horizontal direction Hf of thefixation device 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″ and said horizontal direction Hc of theconnection device 3, 3′, 3″, 3′″ run parallel to a first horizontaldirection Hs1 of the suspension arrangement 1, 1′, 1″, 1′″, which inturn runs parallel to the first horizontal direction Ht1 of the trainingdevice 10. Furthermore, in the unused state of the training device 10,the standing device 8, 8′ and the suspension arrangement 1, 1′, 1″, 1′″are arranged in a common plane, in particular in the horizontal planePHt of the training device 10. In the one or more used states of thetraining device 10 the standing devices 8, 8′ have been moved along thevertical direction Vt of the training device 10 away from the baseelement 11 of the frame device 9 and towards the ground. In other words,the standing devices 8, 8′ have been moved out of said common plane orhorizontal plane PHt. Also in this used state of the training device 10the vertical direction Vf of the fixation device 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″ runsparallel to the vertical direction Vt of the training device 10 and thehorizontal direction Hf of the fixation device 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″ runsparallel to the horizontal direction Ht of the training device 10.However, because the standing devices 8, 8′ are at least partially bentin the used state because of the weight of the user standing on them,the connection devices 3, 3′, 3″, 3′″ being in connection with thestanding devices 8, 8′ are tilted (not depicted). Consequently, in aused state of the training device 10 the vertical direction Vc of theconnection device 3, 3′, 3″, 3′″ does no longer run parallel to thevertical direction Vf of the fixation device 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″ or thevertical direction Vt of the training device 10. The same applies to thehorizontal direction Hc of the connection device 3, 3′, 3″, 3′″, whichis no longer parallel to the horizontal direction Hf of the fixationdevice 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″ or the first horizontal device Ht1 of the trainingdevice 10.

As best seen in FIGS. 5 to 7 , the suspension arrangement 1, 1′, 1″, 1′″comprises here a plurality of resilient devices 4, 4 a, 4 b, . . . inthe form of elastic ropes. Said elastic ropes 4, 4 a, . . . are arrangedon the front region 23 of the connection device 3, 3′, 3″, 3′″, inparticular in connection with the connection elements 7, 7 a, . . . , aswell as on the front surface 21 of the fixation device 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″,in particular in connection with the fixation elements 5, 5 a, 6, 6 a, .. . .

As is readily evident from FIGS. 5 to 7 , the resilient devices 4, . . .extend inclined between the fixation device 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″ and theconnection device 3, 3′, 3″, 3′″ so as to form at least one firstinclination running along a first inclination direction du, i.e. anupward inclination 4 u, and at least one second inclination runningalong a second inclination direction dd, i.e. a downward inclination 4d. The upward inclination 4 u runs upward between the connection device3, 3′, 3″, 3′″ and the fixation device (2, 2′, 2″, 2′″ with respect to ahorizontal plane PHs of the suspension arrangement 1, 1′, 1″, 1′″ andthe horizontal plane PHt of the training device 10 when the trainingdevice 10 is in its unused state.

Similarly, the downward inclination 4 d runs downward between theconnection device 3, 3′, 3″, 3′″ and the fixation device 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″with respect to the horizontal plane PHs of the suspension arrangement1, 1′, 1″, 1′″ and the horizontal plane PHt of the training device 10when the training device 10 is in its unused state. In other words, thedownward inclination 4 d and the upward inclination 4 u are inclined inopposite directions. The horizontal plane PHs of the suspensionarrangement 1, 1′, 1″, 1′″ is defined here by the first horizontaldirection Hs1 of the suspension arrangement 1, 1′, 1″, 1′″ and a secondhorizontal direction Hs2 of the suspension arrangement 1, 1′, 1″, 1′″running perpendicularly to the first horizontal direction Hs1 of thesuspension arrangement 1, 1′, 1″, 1′″. Said second horizontal directionHs2 of the suspension arrangement 1, 1′, 1″, 1′″ furthermore runsperpendicularly to the vertical direction Vf of the fixation device 2,2′, 2″, 2′″, the vertical direction Vc of the connection device 3, 3′,3″, 3′″, to the vertical direction Vt of the training device 10, as wellas to the vertical direction Vs of the suspension arrangement 1, 1′, 1″,1′″.

As mentioned earlier, when the training device 10 is transferred in itsused state the standing devices 8, 8′ are moved along the verticaldirection Vt of the training device 10 towards the ground. Because theconnection devices are in connection with the standing devices 8, 8′ theconnection devices are consequently moved along the vertical directionVt of the training device 10 towards the ground as well. In this usedstate of the training device 10 both the upward inclination 4 u and thedownward inclination 4 d formed by the resilient devices 4, . . . extendvertically upward between the connection devices and the fixationdevices and with respect to a horizontal plane running horizontallythrough the standing devices 8, 8′. Said horizontal plane runs parallelto the horizontal plane PHs of the suspension arrangement and thehorizontal plane PHt of the training device 10 when the training deviceis in its unused state. However, and as is illustrated with respect toFIG. 7 below, an angle of inclination α that is formed between a centralaxis Cu running centrally through the upward inclination 4 u and acentral axis Cd running centrally through the downward inclination 4 din the unused state of the training device 10 remains the same oressentially the same. As follows from FIG. 7 , the central axis Cu ofthe upward inclination 4 u runs along the first direction du and thecentral axis Cd of the downward inclination 4 d runs along the seconddirection dd.

In the depicted embodiment the suspension arrangement 1, 1′, 1″, 1′″comprises a plurality of upward inclinations 4 u and downwardinclinations 4 d, wherein said plurality of upward inclinations 4 u anddownward inclinations 4 d are provided in an alternating manner, i.e.upward inclinations 4 u are followed by downward inclinations 4 d whichin turn are followed by upward inclinations 4 u etc., when seen alongthe horizontal directions Hf, Hc, Ht1, Hs1. Here, each inclination 4 u,4 d is provided by a particular resilient device 4, 4 a, . . . . Thatis, a first resilient device 4 is arranged so as to form an upwardinclination 4 u, its neighbouring second resilient device 4 a isarranged so as to form an upward inclination 4 u, the neighbouring thirdresilient device 4 b is arranged so as to form a downward inclination 4d etc. It should be noted that it is likewise conceivable that oneresilient device is arranged such, that it runs upward as well asdownward. Other arrangements of the inclinations are of course likewiseconceivable.

The angle of inclination a that is formed between the central axis Curunning centrally through the upward inclination 4 u and the centralaxis Cd running centrally through the downward inclination 4 d in theunused state of the training device 10 is here about 10°, see FIG. 7 .In the used state of the training device 10, said angle of inclination αremains about when the training device is subject to a normal use.However, when the training device is used intensively said angle ofinclination could be smaller.

The inclination of the resilient devices 4, 4 a, . . . is achieved hereby the provision of staggered fixation elements 5, 5 a, 6, 6 a, . . . ofthe fixation devices 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″. For the sake of simplicity thefollowing explanations are made with regard to two of such staggeredfixation elements 5, 6 of the plurality of fixation elements. Namely,and as follows from FIGS. 8 to 13 , the fixation device 2 comprises atleast one first fixation element 5 and at least one second fixationelement 6, and wherein the first fixation element 5 and the secondfixation element 6 are arranged staggered from one another with respectto the vertical direction Vf) of the fixation device 2. Furthermore, thefirst fixation element 5 and the second fixation element 6 are arrangedstaggered from one another with respect to the horizontal direction Hfof the fixation device 2.

As mentioned earlier, the connection device 3 comprises a plurality ofconnection elements 7, 7 a, . . . . For the sake of simplicity referenceis again made to two connection elements 7, 7 a of said plurality ofconnection elements. Hence, and as follows from FIGS. 14 and 15 , atleast one first connection element 7 and at least one second connectionelement 7 a are arranged in a staggered manner from one another withrespect to the horizontal direction Hc of the connection device 3.However, said first connection element 7 and said second connectionelement 7 a are arranged in a non-staggered manner from one another withrespect to the vertical direction Vc of the connection device 3.

Thus, by providing a first resilient device 4 that connects the firstconnection element 7 with the first fixation element 5 and a furtherresilient device 4 b that connects the second connection element 7 awith the second fixation element 6, the first resilient device 4 and thefurther resilient device 4 b extend between the connection device 3 andthe fixation device 2 at different inclinations, namely an upwardinclination 4 u and a downward inclination 4 d.

Furthermore, and as also best seen in FIG. 7 , the connection device 3is arranged with respect to the fixation device 2 such, that itsconnection elements 7, 7 a, . . . lie between the first fixationelements 5, 5 a, . . . and the second fixation elements 6, 6 a, . . .with respect to the vertical direction Vs of the suspension arrangement1. That is, at least in the unused state of the training device 10, theconnection device 3, in particular its connection elements 7, 7 a, . . .are arranged on a vertical height that lies between a vertical height ofthe first fixation element 5, 5 a, . . . and a vertical height of thesecond fixation element 6, 6 a, . . . with respect to the verticaldirection Vs) of the suspension arrangement 1 and consequently withrespect to the vertical direction Vt of the training device 10.

It is essential to note that said inclinations 4 u, 4 d of the resilientdevices 4, 4 a, . . . can likewise be obtained if the connectionelements 7, 7 a, . . . of the connection device 3, 3′, 3″, 3″ arearranged staggered from one another with respect to the verticaldirection Vc of the connection device 3, 3′, 3″, 3′″ and if the fixationelements 5, 5 a, 6, 6 a, . . . of the fixation device are arranged in anon-staggered manner from one another with respect to the verticaldirection Vf of the fixation device 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″. Finally, it shouldbe noted that said inclinations 4 u, 4 d of the resilient devices 4, 4a, . . . could also be obtained if both, the connection elements 7, 7 a,. . . as well as the fixation elements 5, 5 a, 6, 6 a, . . . arearranged in a staggered manner from one another with respect to thevertical direction Vc of the connection device 3, 3′, 3″, 3′″ and thevertical direction Vf of the fixation device 2, 2′, 2″, 2″,respectively. Hence, any explanations that are provided herein withregard to fixation elements 5, 5 a, 6, 6 a, . . . being staggered withrespect to the vertical direction Vf of the fixation device 2, 2′, 2″,2′″ likewise apply to connection elements 7, 7 a, . . . being arrangedin a staggered manner with respect to the vertical direction Vc of theconnection device 3, 3′, 3″, 3′″.

Regarding the plurality of fixation elements 5, 5 a, 6, 6 a, . . . andthe plurality of connection elements 7, 7 a, . . . the following shouldbe noted as well. In fact, and as follows from FIGS. 8 to 13 , it can besaid that the fixation device 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″ comprises at least onefurther first fixation element 5 a, wherein the first fixation element 5and the further first fixation element 5 a are arranged staggered fromone another with respect to the horizontal direction Hf of the fixationdevice 2. Furthermore, the first fixation element 5 and the furtherfirst fixation element 5 a are arranged in a non-staggered manner fromone another with respect to the vertical direction Vf of the fixationdevice 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″. The first fixation element 5 and further firstfixation element 5 a are arranged in pairs, wherein hereinafter saidpairs are called first pairs Pf1. Because the fixation device 2, 2′, 2″,2′″ comprises a plurality of first and further first fixation elements5, 5 a, . . . it can be said to comprise a plurality of such first pairsPf1, wherein said plurality of first pairs Pf1 are arranged staggeredfrom one another with respect to the horizontal direction Hf of thefixation device 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″. However, said plurality of first pairsPf1 are arranged in a non-staggered manner from one another with respectto the vertical direction Vf of the fixation device 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″, i.e.said plurality of first pairs Pf1 are arranged on a same vertical heightwith respect to the vertical direction Vf of the fixation device 2, 2′,2″, 2′″.

The fixation device 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″ likewise comprises at least onefurther second fixation element 6 a, wherein the second fixation element6 and the further second fixation element 6 a are arranged staggeredfrom one another with respect to the horizontal direction Hf of thefixation device 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″. Moreover, the second fixation element 6and the further second fixation element 6 a are arranged in anon-staggered manner from one another with respect to the verticaldirection Vf of the fixation device 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″. Hence, here again itis noted that the second fixation element 6 and the further secondfixation element 6 a are arranged in pairs, wherein hereinafter saidpairs are called second pairs Pf2. Since the fixation device 2, 2′, 2″,2′″ comprises a plurality of second and further second fixation elements6, 6 a, . . . it can be said to comprise a plurality of such secondpairs Pf2, wherein said plurality of second pairs Pf2 are arrangedstaggered from one another with respect to the horizontal direction Hfof the fixation device 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″. However, said plurality of secondpairs Pf2 are arranged in a non-staggered manner from one another withrespect to the vertical direction Vf of the fixation device 2, 2′, 2″,2′″, i.e. said plurality of second pairs Pf2 are arranged on a samevertical height with respect to the vertical direction Vf of thefixation device 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″. As is readily evident from FIGS. 8 and10 and from FIGS. 12 and 13 , a vertical distance between the pluralityof first pairs Pf1 and the plurality of second pairs Pf2 is the samewith respect to the vertical direction Vf of the fixation device.Furthermore, a horizontal distance between successive first pairs Pf1with respect to the horizontal direction Hf of the fixation device 2,2′, 2″, 2′″ is in each case the same. The horizontal distance betweensuccessive second pairs Pf2 however differs. As also follows from thesefigures, the number of first pairs Pf1 is larger than the number ofsecond pairs Pf2. In fact, six first pairs Pf1 are provided whereas onlyfour second pairs Pf2 are provided in the present example. However, thefirst pairs Pf1 and the second pairs Pf2 are arranged symmetrically withrespect to a mirror plane extending centrally through the fixationdevice 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″ and perpendicularly to the vertical direction Vfand the horizontal direction Hf of the fixation device 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″.As indicated in FIG. 10 , a vertical distance dvf between the firstfixation element and the second fixation element, in particular a(fictitious) central point of the first fixation element and a(fictitious) central point of the second fixation element is here about3.5 cm. A horizontal distance dhf between said first fixation elementand second fixation element, in particular between their (fictitious)central points, is here about 4 cm. Furthermore, a horizontal distancedhfa between the first fixation element and its neighbouring furtherfirst fixation element is here about 3 cm. Moreover, a horizontaldistance dhfb between two neighbouring first fixation elements ofneighbouring first pairs Pf1 is here about 5 cm.

As becomes readily apparent from a comparison of FIGS. 8 to 11 withFIGS. 12 and 13 , different designs of the fixation elements 5, 5 a, 6,6 a, . . . are conceivable. In fact, FIGS. 8 to 11 depict a firstembodiment of a fixation device 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″ and FIGS. 12 to 13 depicta second embodiment of a fixation device 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″, wherein thefixation elements 5, 5 a, 6, 6 a, . . . of the first embodiment aredesigned as single hooks, and whereas the fixation elements 5, 5 a, 6, 6a, . . . of the second embodiment are designed as double hooks. In fact,the single hooks 5, 5 a, 6, 6 a, . . . according to the first embodimentcomprise a straight region 25 extending perpendicularly away from thefront surface 21 of the fixation device 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″, wherein saidstraight region 25 transitions into a bent region 26 facing away fromthe front surface 21 of the fixation device 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″. As best seenin FIG. 11 , said bent region 26 is bent by approximately 180° and formsa free end 27 which, in turn, faces the front surface 21 of the fixationdevice 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″. The double hooks 5, 5 a, 6, 6 a, . . . accordingto the second embodiment are provided by a common straight region 25extending perpendicularly away from the front surface 21 of the fixationdevice 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″, and wherein said straight region 25 transitionsinto two bent regions 26 in a region facing away from the front surface21 of the fixation device 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″. Here again said bent regions26 are bent in each case by approximately 180° and form in each case afree end 27 facing the front surface 21 of the fixation device 2, 2′,2″, 2′″.

As also follows from FIGS. 8 to 13 , hooks constituting the first pairsPf1 and the second pairs Pf2 are oriented differently from one another.In particular, the hook constituting the first fixation element 5(second fixation element 6) and the hook constituting the further firstfixation element 5 a (further second fixation element 6 a) comprise bentregions 26 extending in opposite directions and/or which are arranged ina mirror-inverted manner with respect to a mirror plane extending alongthe vertical direction Vf of the fixation device 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″ andbetween the first fixation element 5 (second fixation element 6) and thefurther first fixation element 5 a (further second fixation element 6a). In this way, the resilient devices 4, 4 a, . . . can be laterallyhooked in the fixation elements 5, 5 a, 6, 6 a, . . . .

With reference to FIGS. 14 and 17 aspects of the connection device 3,3′, 3″, 3′″ are explained in greater detail. As is apparent from acomparison of these figures, different designs of the connection device3, 3′, 3″, 3′″ are likewise conceivable. In fact, a first embodimentdepicted in FIGS. 14 and 15 depict a connection device 3, 3′, 3″, 3′″that comprises an elongate base body 28 extending along the horizontaldirection Hc of the connection device 3, 3′, 3″, 3′″. The base body 28comprises several protrusions 29 protruding from said base body 28 alongthe second horizontal direction Hs2 of the suspension arrangement 1, 1′,1″, 1′″ when seen in the installed position. In other words, theprotrusions 29 protrude laterally from the base body 28 when thesuspension arrangement 1, 1′, 1″, 1′″ is in the installed position, andwherein the protrusions 29 are facing towards the fixation device 2, 2′,2″, 2′″. That is, the protrusions 29 constitute the front region 23 ofthe connection device 3, 3′, 3″, 3′″ mentioned above. In the installedposition, the base body 28 is facing away from the fixation device 2,2′, 2″, 2′″ and facing towards the standing device 8, 8′. That is, thebase body 28 constitutes the back region 24 of the connection device 3,3′, 3″, 3′″ mentioned above. Here, said protrusions 29 are uniformlyspaced from one another with respect to the horizontal direction Hc ofthe connection device 3, 3′, 3″, 3′″. Each protrusion 29 comprises in aregion of its free end 30 a through hole 31. A bar 32 extends throughthe through-holes 31 of the protrusions 29, whereby connection elements7, 7 a, . . . being provided by the bar 32 and being furthermorelaterally delimited by the protrusions 29 are generated. The back region24 of the connection device 3, 3′, 3″, 3″, i.e. the base body 28,comprises several oblong holes 33 that are arranged along the horizontaldirection Hc of the connection device 3, 3′, 3″, 3′″. Said oblong holes33 serve the purpose of connecting the connection device 3, 3′, 3″, 3′″to the standing device 8, 8′, e.g. via straps or ribbons 19, . . . orthe like that are fastened to said oblong holes 33 on the one side andto the standing device 8, 8′ on the other side. As indicated in FIG. 15, a horizontal distance dhc between two consecutive connection elements,in particular between their (fictitious) central points is here about 4cm. Furthermore, a horizontal distance dhca between two consecutiveprojections 23 is here about 4 cm. Moreover, a horizontal width dhcb ofthe projection 23 is here about 1 cm.

The second embodiment of the connection device depicted in FIGS. 16 and17 , wherein the bar providing the connection elements 3, 3′, 3″, 3′″has been omitted, differs from the first embodiment in the design of thebase body 28. In fact, instead of an elongate base body comprisingoblong holes, protrusions 34 in the back region 24 of the connectiondevice 3, 3′, 3″, 3′″ are provided. That is, the second embodimentcomprises protrusions 29, 34 extending from opposite sides of the basebody 28. The protrusions 34 in the back region 24 of the connectiondevice 3, 3′, 3″, 3′″ are designed analogous to the protrusions 29 inthe front region 23 of the connection device 3, 3′, 3″, 3′″ and likewisecomprise through-holes 35 in the region of their free ends 36, whichthrough-holes 35 can accommodate a bar (not depicted) so as to generateconnection elements that allow a connection of the back region 24 of theconnection device 3, 3′, 3″, 3′″ with the standing devices 8, 8′.

Hence, in any case a fixation device 2, 2′, 2″, 2′″ comprising fixationelements 5, 5 a, 6, 6 a, . . . in the form of hooks and a connectiondevice 3, 3′, 3″, 3′″ comprising connection elements 7, 7 a, . . . inthe form of a bar are provided. These designs allow a connection of theresilient device 4, 4 a, . . . by means of hooking the resilient device4, 4 a, . . . in a hook 5, 5 a, 6, 6 a, . . . and by looping theresilient device 4, 4 a, . . . around the bar 7, 7 a, . . . .

In the disclosed figures one individual fixation element 5, 5 a, 6, 6 a,. . . is connected with one individual resilient device 4, 4 a, . . . ,wherein the fixation elements 5, 5 a, 6, 6 a, . . . constituting a pairPf1, Pf2 are individually connected with a common connection element 7,7 a, . . . via a corresponding resilient device 4, 4 a, . . . , seeFIGS. 5 to 7 . That is, a first connection element 7 is connected with afirst fixation element 5 via a first resilient device 4, and said samefirst connection element 7 is connected with a further first fixationelement via a second resilient device 4 a. A second connection element 7a is connected with a second fixation element 6 via a third resilientdevice 4 b, and said same second connection element 7 a is connectedwith a further second fixation element 6 a via a fourth resilient device4 c, etc. The first fixation element 5 and the further first fixationelement 5 a constitute a first pair Pf1 as described above. The secondfixation element 6 and the further second fixation element 6 aconstitute a second pair Pf2 as described above. Here, the resilientdevices 4, 4 a, . . . are arranged inclined upwardly and downwardly inan alternating manner, wherein the resilient devices 4, 4 a connectingto the first connection element 7 extend inclined upwardly, and theresilient devices 4 b, 4 c connecting to the second connection element 7a extend inclined downwardly, etc.

It has been found out that the characteristics of the resilient devices4, 4 a, . . . have an essential impact on the training possibilitiesoffered by the training device 10. In fact, resilient devices exhibitingelastic properties as disclosed in the diagram of FIG. 18 areparticularly preferred. Said properties are a tensile force of at least100 N at a strain of 100%, more preferably of at least 140 N at a strainof 100%, and particularly preferably of at least 160 N at a strain of100%. These properties are here provided by a commercially availableelastic rope having a diameter of 14 millimetre, a braiding of PES1100x1, and so-called High Performance rubber (synthetic) rubberthreads.

LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS 1, 1′, . . . suspension arrangement 2, 2′, . . .fixation device 3, 3′, . . . connection device 4, 4a, . . . resilientdevice  4d downward inclination  4u upward inclination 5, 5a, . . .first fixation element 6, 6a, . . . second fixation element  7 firstconnection element  7a second connection element 8. 8′ standing device 9 frame device 10 training device 11 base element 12 rail element 13recess 14 step element 15, 15′ surface 16, 16′ end 17, 17′ end 18 sidewall 19, 19a, . . . strap 20 element 21 front surface 22 back surface 23front region 24 back region 25 region 26 region 27 free end 28 base body29 protrusion 30 free end 31 through hole 32 oar 33 oblong holes 34protrusions 35 through hole 36 free end PHs horizontal plane PHthorizontal plane Ht1 horizontal direction Ht2 horizontal direction Hchorizontal direction Vc vertical direction Hf horizontal direction Vfvertical direction Vt vertical direction Pf1 first pair Pf2 second pairdvf vertical distance dhf horizontal distance dhfa horizontal distancedhfb horizontal distance dhc horizontal distance dhca horizontaldistance dhcb horizontal width du first inclination direction dd secondinclination direction

1. A suspension arrangement for suspending at least one standing deviceon a frame device of a training device, the suspension arrangementcomprising: at least one fixation device for fixation to the framedevice; at least one connection device for connection with the standingdevice; and at least one resilient device for resiliently connecting thefixation device with the connection device; wherein the resilient deviceextends inclined between the fixation device and the connection deviceso as to form at least one first inclination running along a firstinclination direction and at least one second inclination running alonga second inclination direction being different from the firstinclination direction.
 2. The suspension arrangement according to claim1, wherein the fixation device comprises at least one first fixationelement and at least one second fixation element, wherein the fixationdevice and the connection device are in connection with one another viathe first and second fixation elements of the fixation device, andwherein the first fixation element and the second fixation element arearranged staggered from one another with respect to a vertical directionof the fixation device, or wherein the first fixation element and thesecond fixation element are arranged in a non-staggered manner from oneanother with respect to the vertical direction of the fixation device.3. The suspension arrangement according to claim 2, wherein the firstfixation element and the second fixation element are arranged staggeredfrom one another with respect to a horizontal direction-ENO of thefixation device running perpendicularly to the vertical direction of thefixation device.
 4. The suspension arrangement according to claim 2,wherein the fixation device comprises at least one further firstfixation element, wherein at least one of: a) the first fixation elementand the further first fixation element are arranged staggered from oneanother with respect to the horizontal direction-ENO of the fixationdevice, and/or b) the first fixation element and the further firstfixation element are arranged in a non-staggered manner from one anotherwith respect to the vertical direction of the fixation device.
 5. Thesuspension arrangement according to claim 2, wherein the fixation devicecomprises at least one further second fixation element, wherein at leastone of: a) the second fixation element and the further second fixationelement are arranged staggered from one another with respect to thehorizontal direction of the fixation device, or b) the second fixationelement and the further second fixation element are arranged in anon-staggered manner from one another with respect to the verticaldirection of the fixation device.
 6. The suspension arrangementaccording to claim 1, wherein the connection device comprises at leastone first connection element and at least one second connection element,wherein at least one of: a) the first connection element and the secondconnection element are arranged in a staggered manner from one anotherwith respect to a horizontal direction-ENO of the connection device, orb) the first connection element and the second connection element arearranged in a staggered or non-staggered manner from one another withrespect to a vertical direction of the connection device runningperpendicularly to the horizontal direction of the connection device. 7.The suspension arrangement according to claim 2, wherein the resilientdevice is in connection with at least one of the first fixation elementor with the further first fixation element.
 8. The suspensionarrangement according to claim 2, further comprising at least onefurther resilient device, wherein the further resilient device is inconnection with the second fixation element or with the further secondfixation element.
 9. The suspension arrangement according to claim 2,wherein at least one of the first fixation element, and/or the furtherfirst fixation element, the second fixation element or the furthersecond fixation element has the shape of a hook.
 10. The suspensionarrangement according to claim 6, wherein at least one of the firstconnection element or the second connection element has the shape of abar.
 11. A training device comprising at least one standing device, aframe device and at least one suspension arrangement, the suspensionarrangement comprising: at least one fixation device for fixation to theframe device; at least one connection device for connection with thestanding device; and at least one resilient device for resilientlyconnecting the fixation device with the connection device; wherein theresilient device extends inclined between the fixation device and theconnection device so as to form at least one first inclination runningalong a first inclination direction and at least one second inclinationrunning along a second inclination direction being different from thefirst inclination direction.
 12. The training device according to claim11, wherein, at least one of: a) at least in an unused state of thetraining device, the standing device and the suspension arrangement arearranged in a common plane, and/or b) at least in the unused state ofthe training device, the resilient device extends inclined between theconnection device and the fixation device so as to form at least onefirst inclination and at least one second inclination.
 13. (canceled)14. A method of suspending at least one standing device on a framedevice of a training device, the method comprising the steps of:Providing at least one suspension arrangement comprising; at least onefixation device for fixation to the frame device; at least oneconnection device for connection with the standing device; and at leastone resilient device for resiliently connecting the fixation device withthe connection device; wherein the resilient device extends inclinedbetween the fixation device and the connection device so as to form atleast one first inclination running along a first inclination directionand at least one second inclination running along a second inclinationdirection being different from the first inclination direction; Fixingthe at least one fixation device to the frame device; Connecting the atleast one connection device with the at least one standing device; andConnecting the at least one fixation device and the at least oneconnection device via the at least one resilient device.
 15. A method ofproducing a suspension arrangement for suspending at least one standingdevice on a frame device of a training device, the method comprising thesteps of: Providing at least one fixation device for fixation to theframe device; Providing at least one connection device for connectionwith the standing device; and Providing at least one resilient devicefor resiliently connecting the fixation device with the connectiondevice; wherein the resilient device extends inclined between thefixation device and the connection device so as to form least one firstinclination running along a first inclination direction and at least onesecond inclination running along a second inclination direction beingdifferent from the first inclination direction.
 16. The suspensionarrangement according to claim 7, wherein the resilient device is inconnection with the first connection element.
 17. The suspensionarrangement according to claim 8, wherein the further resilient deviceis in connection with the second connection element.
 18. The suspensionarrangement according to claim 9, wherein at least one of the resilientdevice or the further resilient device is hooked in one or more of thehooks.
 19. The suspension arrangement according to claim 10, wherein atleast one of the resilient device or the further resilient device islooped around one or more of the bars.
 20. The training device accordingto claim 12, wherein at least one of: a) the first inclination runsupward between the connection device and the fixation device withrespect to a horizontal plane of the training device, or b) the secondinclination runs downward between the connection device and the fixationdevice with respect to the horizontal plane of the training device.